Swung On and Belted

Got home late last night and saw a headline that longtime Seattle Mariners broadcaster Dave Niehaus died at 75 of a heart attack. Here's the story.

I was a big Seattle-sports fan back in the early 90s (except for the Seahawks -- I've always hated them). I was living in the Seattle area at the time. I had a stint working nights driving a forklift and picking orders in a big cooler. I kept a boombox blaring Mariners games whenever they were on, and Niehaus was the voice. Later I moved from the warehouse into the purchasing office and had many opportunities to go to Mariner games at the Kingdome. The 1995 season was the most exciting sports year I think I've ever experienced; I was on board from the beginning, went to a bunch of games, and the team erased a 10-game deficit to the California Angels down the stretch to win the American League West that year after a single 1-game playoff. It was a high time in Jet City, believe me. You had to be there.

In their postseason debut the M's played the Yankees in a classic 5-game series. In game 5 the M's overcame a Yankee lead to push it into extra innings. In the top of the 11th, the Yankees go up by one run and things look bleak. I'm sitting in my dark little trailer, and it's late -- no lights on but the TV. Fucking Black Jack McDowell is on the hill for the Yanks. Joey Cora leads off with a bunt single. Ken Griffey Jr. comes up and also singles; Cora goes to third. The crowd is going nuts. Edgar Martinez, one of my favorite athletes ever, comes to the plate. This is the call from Dave Niehaus. I still get goosebumps, 15 years removed:



I was ecstatic, jumping up and down in my living room. One of my favorite memories ever. Sports can be so sickening and rife with corruption and bullshit, but damn if they can't provide some incredible moments, especially when great personalities are involved.

Thanks for the fantastic years, Dave.